Catecholamine excretion in T-37 flight training.

Abstract

Catecholamine excretion was determined for eight USAF student pilots during three basal and four T-37 training conditions. When viewed as the dependent variable, catecholamine excretion patterns support the conclusion that the Basic Cockpit Training Emergency Procedures unit was not stressful. The remaining lesson units, including Power-on-Stall and Spin-Recovery, First Solo, and Instrument Check lesson units, resulted in a pronounced stress response. When catecholamine excretion data were interpreted for psychological significance, it was concluded that the lesson unit which included Power-on Stalls and Spin-Recoveries created the highest arousal, anxiety and apprehension. Student pilot observations supported this interpretation. The relative excretion of epinephrine and norepinephrine showed changes accompanying pilot training which may be interpreted as demonstrative of successful coping behavior.